Last weekend was the final chance for islanders to enjoy Sandy Point Beach until it reopens in September.
An 800-pound leatherback sea turtle was on the beach Sunday, a good reminder to beach-goers why Sandy Point needs to close this time each year. After laying her nest Saturday night, the turtle became disoriented. National Wildlife Refuge staff accompanied the turtle and kept her cool with a tent and water on Sunday, until she was able to safely return to the ocean.
Turtles of this massive weight are only slightly larger than average which lay their eggs at Sandy Point. St. Croix residents enjoy the opportunity to attend group viewings of turtle egg-laying as well as hatching, led by National Wildlife Refuge staff.
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